WHO Slashes Sugar Limits for Kids—Here’s How Much Candy Is Now Allowed

The World Health Organization (WHO) has issued new guidance on sugar intake for young children. The recommendations set strict limits on sweets, aiming to protect dental health and reduce excessive sugar consumption. Parents are now advised to carefully monitor how often and how much candy their children eat.

For children aged 3 to 6, the WHO suggests no more than one small piece of candy or a single cookie per day. Ideally, these treats should only be given two or three times a week, not daily. Sweets should also follow a main meal rather than being eaten as standalone snacks.

The rules become slightly more flexible for older children. Those aged 7 to 10 may have one or two small candies per day, but the WHO stresses that this should not become a regular habit. Children over 10 can have up to two or three candies daily, though the focus remains on making mindful choices and understanding the effects of sugar. After eating sweets, all children are encouraged to rinse their mouths with water. This simple step helps reduce the risk of tooth decay. The WHO also strongly advises against giving industrial candies to children under three, as their sugar content poses unnecessary health risks. The organisation clarifies that these limits are absolute maximums for healthy children, not daily targets. The goal is to minimise sugar intake while still allowing occasional treats.

The WHO’s guidelines aim to balance enjoyment with long-term health. By setting clear boundaries, the organisation hopes to curb excessive sugar consumption in young children. Parents are now urged to follow these recommendations to support their children’s well-being.